North American Martyrs Parish, Seattle, WA

North American Martyrs Parish is seeking to hire an accomplished organist to play for Sunday High Masses and Holy Days. All Masses are in the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite. We have an accomplished choir whose repertoire consists of Gregorian chant and primarily Renaissance Polyphony, although we perform music from all periods. We recognize the positive effect that quality music has in raising the mind and heart to God. The organ has a particular role in creating and supporting a solemn atmosphere, so we are accepting applications of those who will help us provide musical excellence in the service of the Sacred Liturgy. The instrument is a beautiful Fritts tracker organ.

General Duties:

Play for weekly Sunday High Mass at 11:45am
Play for occasional weekday evening Masses on Holy Days (plenty of notice)
Play for weekly choir rehearsals, Tuesday 6:30-9pm
Play for occasional weddings (with additional pay)

Requisite Organ Skills:

Ability to select and perform quality organ repertoire that is appropriate for the Sacred Liturgy
Ability to practice the organ regularly to ensure quality playing
Ability to accompany Gregorian Chant in a manner sensitive to the singing style
Ability to improvise (Improvisation based on Gregorian Chant melodies and modes can be developed on the job if it is just a matter of a lack of experience)
Advanced hymn playing ability, including varying registration, reharmonizing, and transposing
Knowledge of the traditional Latin Mass, and/or a willingness to be trained in the liturgical cues and guided in the liturgical aesthetic
Competency in the musical patrimony of the church or an eagerness to be mentored in the same

Desired but not required: Ability to sing Gregorian chant and polyphony



Compensation negotiable, based on experience. This is a part time position. An audition will be required.

Catholic candidates are strongly preferred.



Please send resumes and references, as well as a short letter of application which addresses the required skills to: sr_emmanuel@msn.com and write ORGANIST in the Heading.


Thank you!